How much does camping cost at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)?

Camping fees at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) range from $18-$20/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) first-come first-served or reservation?

Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) before I book?

Yes! Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)?

Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) is open May 01 to September 18. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)?

Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)?

Fire policies at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or): Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) have?

Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) has 16 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)?

Pets are not allowed at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or). This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)?

Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

4.41

29 reviews

P.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA

Top 18% in ORSummer

Fishing

Featured in:Camping Near Bend Hidden Gem Campgrounds Oregon Primitive Camping Oregon

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,076 ft

Price

$18 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

16 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Hoodoo Recreation Services Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,076 ft

Price

$18 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

16 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Hoodoo Recreation Services Official Website

Get Directions

Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

$18.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $18.00 (+$2.00 holiday). Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

541-323-1746Jen@Hoodoo.com

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

P.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA

Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

P.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA

Nearby places

Sisters (approximately 14 miles, 20 minutes), Bend (approximately 38 miles, 45 minutes), Redmond (approximately 34 miles, 40 minutes).

Weather at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

Current alerts(11)

Camping or otherwise occupying a single location (including leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies) for a period longer than 14 consecutive calendar days is prohibited.
Click here for more information about Deschutes National Forest Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests.
During your time in Central Oregon, you can find wildfire, prescribed fire and smoke information at centraloregonfire.org
NO generator use is allowed in campgrounds between 10:00PM and 7:00AM (36 CFR 261.10). Silent power banks or battery powered devices are allowed.

Best Time to Camp at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the fullest range of activities: expect pleasant daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-80s°F and crisp mornings in the 30s–50s°F, ideal for long days on the Metolius. Fly-fishing and hiking are at their peak — the spring-fed river stays unusually clear and fishable all season — and wildlife viewing is excellent in early morning and evening. Weekends and July–August draw the biggest crowds, so make reservations and plan weekday visits for a quieter stay. Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 18% in OR

Peak season May 23–Sep 20; summer reviews are very positive and river remains fishable.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 01 to September 18. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open from May 23 to September 20 for reservations. Out-of-season period is September 20 to May 1.

About Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

Riverside Campground sits along the spring-fed Metolius River in Deschutes National Forest, a short drive from Sisters. Operated by Hoodoo Recreation Services, this small, generator-free campground offers spacious primitive and tent sites with vault toilets, potable water, and direct river access. Anglers and hikers prize the clear water and quiet setting, though parking for extra vehicles is limited.

Riverside Campground is exclusively a walk-in, tent-only facility, catering to campers seeking a more primitive experience. RVs and trailers are not permitted.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the fullest range of activities: expect pleasant daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-80s°F and crisp mornings in the 30s–50s°F, ideal for long days on the Metolius. Fly-fishing and hiking are at their peak — the spring-fed river stays unusually clear and fishable all season — and wildlife viewing is excellent in early morning and evening. Weekends and July–August draw the biggest crowds, so make reservations and plan weekday visits for a quieter stay. Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation3076 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe Metolius River emerges from underground springs near the base of Black Butte, a volcanic cinder cone that looms over the forest. The water stays unusually clear year-round because it filters through porous volcanic soils before surfacing. Ponderosa pines and Douglas firs dominate the canopy, creating patchy shade across the campsites. Mule deer browse the understory in early morning and evening. The river itself is narrow here, cold even in summer, with native trout visible in the shallows.

Programs & ActivitiesNearby attractions such as the Lava Lands Visitor Center and Newberry National Volcanic Monument offer interpretive programs and exhibits on the local landscape and history.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum of 14 consecutive nights, and a total of 28 nights per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not explicitly stated, but reviews suggest room for one vehicle and possibly one additional vehicle for a fee.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe campground is walk-in tent-only and does not allow RVs or trailers, which may limit accessibility for some visitors. Campsites require hauling equipment a short distance from the parking area.

Site SizeSites are described as "large" and "well laid out," providing ample room.

PrivacyCampsites are "spaced out" with decent shade, offering a moderate level of privacy. However, one user expressed concerns about others walking through their site unnecessarily.

Total Campsites16 campsites

Recommended SitesReviews suggest choosing sites closer to the river for the best experience and avoiding sites near high-traffic paths or toilets for privacy.

Best CampsitesSite 012 sits in a grove of ponderosas with more room than most. Site 008 has decent spacing from neighbors and sits close to the vault toilets. Site 015 offers the easiest river access. Most sites are large, though parking for extra vehicles is tight.

Need help booking Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

This campground is only suitable for walk in tent camping since we cannot accommodate RVs or trailers.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors can enjoy hiking and fishing at Riverside Campground. Fishing in the Metolius River offers opportunities for rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout, and kokanee salmon. Hiking options include riverside trails and subalpine forest routes. Nearby attractions expand recreational options with activities like bird watching at the Camp Sherman Fish Viewing Platform and exploring geological features at Newberry National Volcanic Monument.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground. Expect vault or pit toilets only.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

29 reviews

Recommended

Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is highly praised for its scenic location near the Metolius River, large and well-laid-out campsites, and clean facilities. Complaints primarily focus on noise and occasional lack of privacy.

Review Summaries

Based on 29 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 29 reviews.

Site 008Loved
Site 008 received mixed reviews; it is close to the toilet but some felt privacy could be improved.
Site 012Loved
Site 012 is noted for its spaciousness and good shade.

What Campers Love

Large campsites, clean vault toilets, access to the Metolius River, and a peaceful setting are frequently mentioned. Reviewers also appreciate the absence of generators and the opportunity for a more...

Based on 29 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise from neighboring campers and people walking unnecessarily through campsites are noted as downsides. Some users expressed disappointment with the limited parking for additional vehicles.

Based on 29 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water supply as there are no hookups. Prepare for a short walk from the parking area to your campsite. Be mindful of fire restrictions and check for updates on conditions.

Based on 29 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with positive reviews highlighting the area's beauty and recreational opportunities. However, heat waves can impact comfort levels, as noted by one reviewer.

Based on 29 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "The pit toilets are pretty clean and people knew to keep the lid down so they didn’t smell too badly."—Heather M. 2. "Large campsites situated in Ponderosa pines. Short walk to the Metolius...

Based on 29 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 29 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific user reviews address pet policies or experiences involving pets.

Based on 29 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want quiet riverside camping with good fishing access and don't need hookups or generator power.

Skip if

You need extra vehicle parking, RV hookups, or guaranteed privacy from foot traffic through your site.

Nearby Campgrounds

Deschutes National Forest

Riverside Campground offers 16 walk-in tent sites spread across a quiet Ponderosa pine grove in the Deschutes National Forest. Despite the name, the Metolius River flows nearby but isn't visible or audible from camp. Sites run $12-18/night and provide genuine privacy in an open forest setting. No potable water on-site.

Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

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Quick Facts

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Weather at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

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Best Time to Camp at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

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About Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

Best Campsites

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Common Concerns

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Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

Facilities

Directions

Plan a trip to Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

Current alerts(11)

Best Time to Camp at Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Riverside Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns